The Windy City, Chi-Town and The Third Coast are all better known as the bustling city of Chicago, home to some of our country’s most renowned cuisine, Michelin-starred restaurants and craft beverages. What most might not realize is that Chicago is also an ever-growing cider city. It has a large following in the cider community – one of the top five markets year after year — with national and international events held downtown throughout the year. The most well known events are Cider Summit Chicago and CiderCon that are taking place shortly after the New Year.
Held exclusively for members of the United States Association of Cider Makers (USACM), CiderCon was created to promote positive changes in the cider world. It allows for producers and trade alike to come together with colleagues and express wisdom about the industry. The knowledge and advice shared at CiderCon enhances the commercial industry, builds successes and diversifies the cider network. From Feb. 7-10, cidermakers, USACM members and cider experts will come together to host CiderCon.
Conference sessions and workshops will focus on production, distribution, market research, online branding, sensory analysis and apple growing all offered at various levels of experience. If you’re not currently a member of the USACM, sign-up now because registration closes soon. This three-day event will take place at the Hilton in downtown Chicago adjacent to the beautiful waterfront. Immediately following the cider-soaked week of business, Cider Summit Chicago will continue the theme by hosting the international tasting festival at with two sessions at the Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom on Feb. 11. For the complete CiderCon schedule, click here.
